First comes dogwood, then comes fringe tree

We all associate dogwood trees with spring in the south and their bright white blooms gracing the woodland edges are indeed lovely to see.  For me, however, the next native tree to bloom is far prettier.  Fringe tree,  or my favorite favorite name for this tree, grancy grey beard, creates a stunning show of bright white far superior to the dogwood show.

My photo of this tree does not do it justice, I couldn't get the lighting to cooperate with my limited photography skills.  What is really here is a giant puff ball of white fringe that dances in the wind and fills the vicinity with a delicate fragrance.

The native fringe tree has no issues with disease or pests, grows quickly to a manageable 20 feet, is easy to grow in full sun or partial shade, is a show stopper in the spring, and provides gentle shade all summer.

You would think everyone would have one growing in their backyard.  Sadly, they are hard to find in nurseries.  I'm privileged to have two of them that were given to me as seedlings.  If you ever see one at a nursery, buy it immediately!